Topic: Ethics and the Law
Applied ethics (Ethics and the Law) involve the practical application of the rules of
professional conduct of lawyers and how these rules apply to the everyday practice of the
legal profession. We will also examine the canons of judicial conduct, which are
standards of conduct for judges. How do these standards of conduct for lawyers and
judges protect the general public by the policing of the legal profession and the
administering of justice in our courts – or do these rules, in reality, protect the general
public?
As the calendar permits, we will also look at the rule of admission (to the bar) and
disciplining of lawyers. Upon scrutiny, we'll attempt to answer the question of whether
these rules and canons really work or are they simply "window dressing" for a profession
and system in need of uplifting in the eyes of the general public? Additional readings and
studies might include the rules of small claims courts in Indiana, and time permitting,
such study will include scenarios of ethics regarding the administration of justice and
litigation involving landlords and tenants (a common small claims subject of litigation).
Additional subjects which may be reviewed relate to patients' rights under the "patients
Bill of Rights" as such codes and statements are related to medical ethics. Included in
this subject would be the "Pediatric Bill of Rights," "Codes of Specialty Healthcare
Associations" and patients' rights as they are afforded by the "Regulations for Skilled
Nursing Facilities."
As to the administration of this course, roll will be taken inasmuch as such is necessary in
the student's expected class discussion participation. Credit will be given to innovative
and constructive contributions in discussing our various topics. There will be at least
four and not more than six essay examinations during the course of the semester. Each
examination will be equal in value in the student's grade.